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Spring's arrival includes a symphony of bird songs - including the coveted turkey gobble for Detroit's conservationists. Here is Expedition Detroit's breakdown of the locations, dates, equipment, and special regulations for the 2024 spring Michigan turkey hunting season! Imagine a perfect spring morning on your favorite trail. A pleasant 60º temperature with a bluebird sky backdrop, contrasted only by the budding greens, whites, pinks, and purples of the flowering trees. Wildflowers may already be sprouting through the freshly de-frosted ground, and the songs of migrant songbirds complete the background ambiance. One song breaks through the chorus - a distinct "GOBBLE, GOBBLE" that you had not thought about since November. Then you see them - a flock of wild turkeys steadily trekking through the woods, with a peacocking, puffed-out tom surely chasing down the hens. Maybe this is your first time ever seeing wild turkeys on this trail. Maybe it's the hundredth time. Regardless, the fact that you're actually witnessing that particular flock resulted from nothing short of a conservation miracle. A research-based, near-perfectly executed plan to preserve and manage North America's wild turkey population that was on the brink of extinction. And no, this near-catastrophic event did not occur in the 1800s or early 1900s like so many other mass-extinction events. We almost lost our wild turkeys in the 1970s. If you're new to Expedition Detroit, the inclusion of a hunting article during peak "Earth Day" content season may seem out of place. We understand that sentiment, but the truth is that ethical, recreational hunting provides a cornerstone component of the Michigan Department of Natural Resource's greater conservation program. Beyond the revenue from hunting licenses providing a key funding source for the DNR's operations, the active management of wild species like wild turkey has led to a nearly 8x increase in their population and material preservation of their habitat. For this and many other reasons, outdoor ethics organizations like Leave No Trace have endorsed ethical hunting as a fundamental aspect of a healthy recreational ecosystem. April 20th is the opening day for Spring Wild Turkey Season throughout southern Michigan. With one month to go, here's a "cheatsheet" for what you should know before heading into the field. 2024 Spring Turkey Digest Highlights Every spring, the Michigan DNR produces its Michigan Spring Turkey Digest that constitutes essentially the Bible on all matters Michigan turkey hunting. Here's a consolidated version of the Digest for turkey hunting within the Detroit region. When to Apply: Leftover licenses are available for purchase now via the Michigan DNR's website. Purchased licenses will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days after purchase. ***NEW FOR 2024*** The Hunt 0234 license (see below) has no quota and can be purchased anytime. Season Dates: April 20th - May 31st for private land hunting within Unit ZZ. The public Units have a possible extended season through June 7th depending on each license's specific hunt numbers. Required Equipment: Hunters may use a bow and arrow, a crossbow, a firearm that fires a fixed shotgun shell, or a muzzleloading shotgun. It is illegal to use or carry afield any other firearm. With regard to camouflage, we recommended repurposing your bow hunting equipment for early Whitetail Deer season for Michigan's early spring conditions. Other recommended equipment includes turkey calls (don't forget to practice before heading into the field) and decoys. Limitations: 1 bearded turkey per tag. Hunters are also allotted only one tag per season. Licenses Required: Base License and a Spring Turkey License. ***NEW FOR 2024*** The DNR has created a new "Hunt 0234" license available for use between May 4th - 31st. This is a statewide, guaranteed spring turkey license that does not require an application in the conventional spring turkey drawing. With the Hunt 0234, you can hunt on both public and private lands in the Upper Peninsula and Northern Lower Peninsula, as well as private land in Unit ZZ. Limitations: 1 bearded turkey per tag. Hunters are also allotted only one tag per season. Turkeys may not be harvested while roosting or sitting in a tree. Mechanical, electronic or live decoys are prohibited. Recommended Public Hunting Locations As displayed within the Digest, the entirety of the Detroit region is within the "ZZ" Unit - a multi-county, private-land only unit. Within the ZZ Unit "private" area, there are also three "public" area units that feature some of the best hunting destinations throughout the entire state. For the Detroit region, these public areas include Unit ZD and the southeastern portions of Units ZC and ZE. While licensed hunters can pursue Michigan's turkeys in most state-managed areas, there are a select handful of state lands that the DNR has specifically anointed as suggested locations for prime spring Michigan turkey hunting opportunities. Several of these are in the Detroit region, but two are uniquely located within the same township: Seven Lakes State Park and Holly Recreation Area in Holly Township. Of these two destinations, Holly Recreation Area is especially well-suited for Michigan turkey hunting due to its 8,000+ acres, rolling woodlands, and open fields. Both natural areas are located in Unit ZC and are prime destinations for conventional birdwatching activities as well. Please note that this cheatsheet is only a high-level and supplemental reference to the Digest. The Digest also includes a broad range of very helpful and instructive information, such as legal shooting hours, information on lawful stands and baiting practices, and penalties for violations. Any further inquiries regarding applicable rules and regulations should be directed to the Hunting Digest or DNR at 517-284-WILD. You can CLICK HERE to purchase any of the requisite licenses listed above. New to Michigan turkey hunting and would like additional resources? You're in luck. The DNR, Michigan Wild Turkey Hunters Association, National Wild Turkey Federation, and other groups offer wild turkey hunter orientation courses. A fee may be charged, and space may be limited. For details about events, visit Michigan.gov/Turkey. Best of luck this season!

In honor of Earth Week, we embraced the challenge of thru-hiking the Detroit's region's most rigorous backpacking route: the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. This second installment of our series on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail traverses the most strenuous terrain of the entire journey - as well as discovering welcomed surprises to ease the "Survival Day." Rainstorms while camping: possibly the greatest paradox in the backpacking experience. On one hand, you'll never find a better "white noise" machine than Mother Nature maintaining a steady droplet beat against your rainfly. A wonderfully-deafening rhythm that beckons all weary hikers to further embed themselves into the cocoon of their warm sleeping bag. On the other hand...you're camping. Scratch that, you're backpacking. You need to emerge from the depths of your bag, pack up everything within eyesight into your backpack - including the shelter currently keeping you dry - and hit the trail. The muddy, sandy, hilly, 12-mile Waterloo-Pinckney Trail preselected as your "survival day." Yeah. Burrowing further into the sleeping bag sounded pretty good. I checked the radar, saw that the storms were scheduled to dissipate in a few hours, and succumbed to the temptation. Fast forward a few hours and it's 9:30 a.m. The backcountry equivalent of sleeping in until noon. The natural drumroll that had lulled me back to sleep has calmed to an inconsistent drip, and a lone bird call alerts me that all systems are clear for a prospective launch from the tent. The light in my cavernous backpacker's tent is noticeably brighter now too. As a final precaution, I check the radar again. Bad news. The storms are expected to linger until 2:30 p.m., albeit with brief respite periods like the next 30 minutes. The temptress known professionally as Big Agnes starts to whisper sweet nothings into my ear again, coaxing me back to my 20º-rated bag and Klymit air mattress. "No," I say so audibly that the bird quits singing, confused with the faceless tent is suddenly speaking. "This is why I brought rain gear. Time to go." The first battle of the day had been won. There would be several more to fight throughout one epic Day 2 on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. THE WPT: PINES RUSTIC CAMPGROUND TO GREEN LAKE Total Distance: 12.01 miles Elevation Gain: 1,405 feet Trail Rating: Moderate-Hard Route Orientation: Point-to-Point When I first started planning my thru-hike in early March, I predetermined that Day 2 would serve as the "Survival Day" of the trip. For me, this concept means allocating as many obstacles or variables to handle into one finite period as possible. The main advantage to this concept is that, theoretically, you only need to work up the gusto once to supersede the most difficult moments of the journey, thereby rewarding the effort with easier days on the backend. The main disadvantage is, well, that you need to do it. Survival Days should start with a handful small wins that carry the positive momentum forward into the larger endeavors. After successfully emerging from my sleeping bag, Day 2 kicked off with a general best practice of packing up as much as I could into my pack before leaving the tent. Once I successfully converted my backcountry bedroom into a fully-packed bag, I emerged from the tent to fire up my Jetboil and make some instant coffee (an absolute necessity). As my coffee cooled, I carefully broke down camp - folding the rainfly towards the inside to minimize soaking the rest of the tent bag - and secured my rain cover over my pack before the storm could pick up again. Which the storm did, of course, moments after I drained my last sip of coffee. I tightened up my pack, made one last sweep of the Pines Campground to confirm that Expedition Detroit had indeed "Left No Trace," and started hiking. The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail from Pines Campground starts at the day's lowest point before a gradual two-mile ascent towards the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail's highest point: Prospect Hill. Fair warning, Waterloo Recreation Area's equestrian faithful have left a heavy toll on this initial segment of the trail. The frequent rainstorms that I hiked through actually improved the sandy conditions that horse traffic have unleashed on Waterloo's bridle paths. I trekked through the first mile of marshlands with ease, although the landmines of horse poop kept me sharp-eyed and light footed. Once you cross Clear Lake Road, the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail starts getting fun. I mean really fun, or at least for anyone who enjoys rigorous trekking in the U.P. or Out West. Starting at 1.4 miles into the day, you will initiate your assault on Prospect Hill, complete with rocky straightaways and - for my first time ever in the Detroit region - legitimate trail switchbacks. While I usually dread switchbacks when backpacking Out West due to their repetitious nature, this feature of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail provided further confirmation of one of Expedition Detroit's core beliefs: that the Detroit region has world-class outdoor experiences akin to other renown destinations. If a trail has switchbacks - and a 17% grade climb to its peak - then that constitutes a trail worth hiking. As you complete the climb, a small stone marker will gradually start to peak over the trail. This humble marker rests at the top of Prospect Hill at an elevation of 1,150 feet. This marker also signals that you have reached the "summit" of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. Yes, you will still need to descend and reascend several more challenging moraines before reaching Silver Lake, but take some time to celebrate this achievement. Again, Survival Days are best survived with compounding "wins," and reaching the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail's peak is most certainly a win. I celebrated by eating an "Aussie Bite" breakfast. Your next "win" - which for me was honestly more satisfying than summiting Prospect Hill - comes in the form of a weathered sign bringing tidings of comfort and joy. As you draw closer to the sign, you may start crying tears of joy because the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail FINALLY breaks off from Waterloo's bridle trails. Yes, non-equestrian friends: no more dodging horse poop, trudging through sand, or keeping your head on a swivel for riding traffic. The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail is yours and yours alone for the remainder of Waterloo Rec. The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail's string of ascents and descents leading to Crooked Lake provides one of the most beautiful and solitary segments of the entire trail experience. Especially around the 14.4 mile marker, you descend from an upper panoramic ridge line into what feels like a forested bowl, trekking alone within your own micro-wilderness. The surroundings invite you to be completely present - to indulge in the natural confines that invoke stillness, reflection, contentment, and gratitude for the experience that you've embarked on. Your arrival at the banks of Crooked Lake provides a reminder that you are still backpacking within a larger metropolitan area. A fox sighting made this moment memorable for me, but otherwise I found myself eager to start the ascent away from the lake and its several cottages and homesteads. At this point in the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, I found myself preferring the solitude of the woods more and more with each passing mile. The trance-inducing rhythm of the intermittent rain hitting the top of my rain jacket's hood further grounded me to nature and apart from the distractions of a developed world. Or at least until I reached the Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center roughly 7 miles into the day and remembered all of the benefits of a modern society. Roofed picnic shelter with benches perfect for drying out equipment and clothing? Check. A water fountain for filling up my bottle and cooking a proper re-hydrated lunch? Check. The cleanest bathroom that I have ever encountered in a park setting? Check. After conquering the morning's rigors on a relatively empty stomach, I allotted myself an hour to indulge in the Discovery Center's amenities. I strongly encourage you to do the same. Golden hour at Green Lake Campground The remaining four miles on Day 2 lead largely due north towards Green Lake. There is one more daunting moraine to summit approximately two miles past the Discovery Center, but as a whole this segment consists of wetland boardwalks and ridge line traverses. Similar to the prior day's experience, my calorie-depleted mind started to drift during this segment, therefore diminishing my memory now. After thoroughly examining the breadth of my relationships and life choices (yikes), I channeled this trail-induced hypnosis towards brainstorming future article ideas and innovative products or services for Expedition Detroit. Let's just say that if you're ever reading a future article and think "Where did this idea come from??", the answer is probably circa Miles 19 or 20 on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. Roughly five and a half hours after setting off from Pines Campground, I had finally reached the service road into Green Lake Campground. Spoiler alert, reaching this road does not mark the finish line for the day. I hiked another 0.4 miles to reach my Green Lake Campground site - the isolated Site #8 - which was conveniently located across the camp drive from the outhouses and water pump. The site also had a plethora of downed sticks to build a roaring fire with inside its industrial fire pit. Green Lake Campground was very crowded that night, including what appeared to be a family reunion at its famous yurt next to me, but I still managed to find some solitude while reading a book next to the fire - similarly to how the whole journey had started several months prior. I picked up head up to recognize one last surprise on the day - dissipating clouds and rays of brilliant gold light against the trees above me. I left my book, ran to the shoreline, and caught the final act of one of the most dramatic sunsets I have ever seen. The Survival Day was complete. And I had enjoyed every single moment of it. Do you maintain or regularly hike on a particular trail? Any suggestions for which "hidden gem" destination we should spotlight next? Let us know in the comments!

In honor of Earth Week, we embraced the challenge of thru-hiking the Detroit's region's most rigorous backpacking route: the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. This third and final installation of our Waterloo-Pinckney Trail series covers the entirety of the Pinckney section of the trail - 14 miles of challenges, triumphs, pain, and euphoria. "Hey Pops - it's gonna be another hour or so...sorry. Today's been a wild card." Those were probably the last words that my jet-lagged father wanted to hear as he waited patiently at the Silver Lake Trailhead in Pinckney Recreation Area, and he masked his reasonable annoyance, well, reasonably. In his defense, I explicitly said that I would be arriving at the trailhead around 4:30PM. I would blow that arrival time by nearly an hour. In my defense, I never planned on arriving that evening at all. Reddit reviews and relentless rain can have that effect on a perfectly-planned itinerary. Add an ambitious, adventurous, and borderline reckless outdoorsman spirit, and you end up with a 10K day turning into a half marathon+ expedition. At a personal record-pace for backpacking. If you're asking yourself "Why would you do that to yourself?", you're definitely not alone. I was asking myself the same question between miles 7 - 14 on Day 3. But at 8 a.m. - while waking up to yet another morning of rain pelting my tent fly - I simply couldn't stomach the thought of breaking down camp (in the rain), hiking a quick 6 miles (in the rain), setting up camp again (in the rain), and then potentially repeating the process all over again the following day. If it were another 20 miles to Silver Lake, then yes, I would have kept to the plan. But 14 miles...? I could push through. Especially with a boost from the intermittent presence of my brother James of Cooke Productions, my "documentary crew" for the first half of the day. "Alright," I said to myself as I looked back down the hill at Green Lake's Site #8 to confirm that I had left no trace. "No stopping now. The way is through. Let's get it!" THE WPT: GREEN LAKE CAMPGROUND TO SILVER LAKE Total Distance: 14.21 miles Elevation Gain: 1,454 feet Trail Rating: Moderate-Hard Route Orientation: Point-to-Point If you also opt to finish the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail from Green Lake Rustic Campground - hopefully with more foresight than a game-time decision - remember that your day will start with playing some mileage catch-up. From Site #8, this meant a 0.4 mile backtrack just to get to the main trail (mile marker 20.9 on the AllTrails map). I didn't mind since I knew that my brother was waiting at the trail's parking lot to start shooting, but you should be mentally prepared for this and a few other trail redirects that add extra mileage to your half-marathon day. Once back on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, we immediately climbed Riley Hill to reach the highest point of Day 3's elevation (1,040 feet). This climb will feel like child's play compared to the Survival Day's oscillating climbs, but at least take a moment to congratulate yourself on achieving this first micro-win on the day. My brother and I celebrated by abruptly getting passed on the trail by an ultra runner. I actually connected with this runner later via a Facebook SE Michigan trails group, who told me that he had started at Big Portage Lake 5 hours earlier... what a badass, and also the only other thru-hiker/trail runner that I crossed paths way during the entirety of my trek across the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. After a brief 0.1 mile descent down Riley Hill, you will be standing face-to-face with M-52. Here's an important navigational item to remember: ALLTRAILS IS NOT CURRENT WITH THE ACTUAL TRAIL ORIENTATION. At this point, turn left to follow the paved, brand-spanking-new Border to Border Trail northwest until you see a beautiful statute of a Native American woman and a tunnel under the highway. Thru-hiking treks across the United States, Canada, and the rest of the world have lots of strange "milestone traditions"; I don't know if there are any specifically associated with the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, but I decided to kiss this woman's feet as a sign of respect and blessing for safe passage into Pinckney State Recreation Area. I wouldn't classify myself as superstitious (just a littlestitious), but the hail that had been beating us for the last 20 minutes cleared up roughly 2 minutes after completing this act. Just saying... The M-52 Tunnel is literally and figuratively a rite of passage. For starters, after 20+ miles on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, you are finally saying goodbye to the climbs, lakes, campgrounds, and wilderness of Waterloo State Recreation Area. Your first steps back into daylight are simultaneously your first steps into Pinckney Rec, signaling that the finish line is within reach. You have successfully hiked through the entirety of one park, and now another is just beginning. More importantly, you have proven to yourself that you are a self-reliant thru-hiker. Net-net, you should be smiling ear-to-ear as you verge off of the paved B2B Trail and continue due east on a recently-cut straightaway trail. The straightway is largely a mile-long descent towards wetlands before a moderate climb due north. Normally I would've relaxed my pace on this straightaway, taking my time to enjoy the consistent terrain and early spring sights and sounds. But not today...in a perfect storm of inclement weather, doubled mileage, and a diminishing media shooting schedule, I needed to accelerate my pace. So, despite being about 24 miles total into my thru-hike, I jogged this part of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail to make up time. Which I knew that I would likely pay for later. At the 22.4 mile marker (as shown on the map above), you will actually leave Pinckney Rec to enter your third park of the journey: Park Lyndon County Park. The brief 1 mile passage through Park Lyndon may be the single most scenic and naturally-diverse mile along the entire trail. Starting in wetlands just east of Lake Genevieve, you quickly ascend to follow a hardwood-lined ridge through the park's southern section, complete with panoramic views to the southwest towards the lake. Once across N Territorial Road, you pass briefly through an open park area before descending into pine forest value - only to abruptly climb again to reach more ridge line panoramic vistas. To complete the full spectrum of Detroit region trail experiences, you'll finish this segment crossing boardwalks. Absolutely beautiful segment of the trail. Back in Pinckney Rec, the on-and-off boardwalks continue until you reach Embury Road at mile marker 24.1. The trail then returns to its normal form: gently rolling terrain that guides you alongside wetlands and under oak, maple, and other hardwood trees, as well as the occasional grassland meadow to permit the returning sunshine to reach your skin. I took some time to rest on a large log just west of Joslin Lake Rd. My brother brought a few trail beers with him, so I gave my legs a chance to recover after the sub-20 minute/mile pace that I had been maintaining with a heavy pack. He snapped this photo to capture the moment before leaving me to face the remaining 10 miles on the day. The first mile past Joslin Lake Road continued to be enjoyable, although the departure of my brother reminded me of the joys of hiking with another person - even if you only see them at intermittent road crossings. Past Hadley Road, however, I started to feel the cumulative effects of the past 48 hours, especially that morning's sprinted, hilly miles. The Pinckney Rec section of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail is comparatively much easier to traverse than Waterloo's climbs, but I squandered that topographic advantage via pushing my legs. Stated differently, I found myself in a world of hurt. My legs were aching, my calories all but depleted, that morning's companion had left, and I was squarely within one of the most isolated sections of the trail. I did not see another hiker, runner, or mountain biker during that 3.4 mile stretch of beautiful yet dense, isolating forest. The only non-wood geographic feature to break up the uniformity of the forest was - of course - Dead Lake. "The way is through," I kept audibly repeating to myself. I have no idea who first coined that mantra, but I have utilized it several times in my athletic pursuits, professional projects, and personal challenges when my mind, body, and soul want nothing more than to lie down and end the present pain. "The way is through - just keep going." I should also mention here that if you are planning on camping at Blind Lake, be on the lookout for trail signs for Blind Lake around the 27.4 mile marker. I am specifically calling this out because (1) my original itinerary involved camping at Blind Lake and (2) I did not see any signs leading to the campground. Maybe my exhausted mind just simply missed the markers, but if I hadn't planned on finishing the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail on Day 3 then I would have hiked an extra mile or so before realizing my mistake. The calorie depletion really started to rear its ugly head right around the 30 mile marker past Hankerd Road. Aside from hiking in complete "zombie mode," i.e. autopilot to the point where your senses resolutely tune out every other sensation besides walking, I made one of the worst mental mistakes that you can make as an exhausted thru-hiker: I forgot about the discrepancies between AllTrails, the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail's official blue trail markers, and the actual trail's mileage. At Green Lake, I knew that my watch would read 14+ miles by the end of the day. During the course of my adventure, however, I started to believe that the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail's total mileage would be more like ~35 miles, or end at the blue "Mile 33" marker. Again, this was my energy-deprived mind giving into exhaustion, with the end result being that my extraction service arrived at Silver Lake roughly an hour early due to my miscalculation. Continuing to navigate under physically and mentally exhaustive conditions is one of many resilience building attributes of thru-hiking the the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the most difficult, drop-kick-to-the-groin mental challenges all came within the last five miles of the trek. Here are the remaining two: Pickerel Lake Junction: Whoever planned this segment of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail was a sadistic S.O.B. No, not because of the terrain which is totally manageable. At this point, you will find yourself at a crossroads of trails. One trail leads directly to the Silver Lake Trailhead. Another god-forsaken trail heads southwest, well away from anywhere that a Waterloo-Pinckney Trail thru-hiker would want to venture. Guess what friends: the direct trail is "Silver Lake Trail," which is not your route. You, oh lucky one, are headed southwest for another 2 miles of indirect fun. The 33 Mile Marker: This spot is mentally challenging for two reasons. First - especially if you've been giving looking at AllTrails - you will errantly believe that you have reached that coveted final mile. You haven't. Sorry, you have 2 more to go - including a steep final climb at the 34 mile marker. But second, and significantly more mentally-testing than the mileage disappointment, is that you'll be tempted. There's a shortcut trail right around the 33 Mile Marker that would shave off a mile, and after the litany of inaccurate trail markers that you've fallen victim to by this point, you would have a decent argument for taking it. Brothers and sisters - resist the temptation! Short term gratifications almost always lead to long term regrets. Yes, the extra mile sucks - but knowing inside that you didn't truly thru-hike the entire Waterloo-Pinckney Trail would suck even more. The Reunion at Silver Lake Well done, fellow hiker - you passed both of these tests by knocking out an additional 5K's worth of seemingly unnecessary trail. Now, finally on the main Silver Lake Trail, you are rewarded with a gradual, largely direct descent towards the finish line: the Silver Lake Trailhead. Despite all of the pain that you had probably experienced up to this point, the last half mile of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail provides a near-religious experience. A rush of dopamine as you start to see the lake through the trees. A feeling of innate gratification as other hikers just starting their journeys look at you like a returned hero, a trail conqueror - a thru-hiker. Better yet, I had a one-person welcome party waiting for me at the finish line: my father who had just returned from Zambia the night before, jet-lagged and smiling. I tapped the 35 Mile Marker post. I crossed the threshold of the trailhead past the welcome kiosk. And with that, the inaugural Expedition Detroit thru-hike of the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail was complete. FINAL STATISTICS FOR THE ENTIRE THRU-HIKE OF THE WPT Total Distance: 37.79 miles Elevation Gain: 3,907 feet Hiking Time: 14h 38m 22s Final Thoughts: The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail should be on every Detroit-based backpacker's bucket list. You will traverse the entire spectrum of our region's best hiking - steep moraines, dense forests, expansive grasslands, and wetlands teeming with life. Regardless of whether you choose to complete the trek solo or with friends, this journey will undoubtedly leave an imprint on your perception of the immense backpacking opportunities found not only near Detroit, but throughout Michigan and the Great Lakes region. Thank you to everyone who joined us on this three-part journey! These articles were longer than usual and represented more of a personal travelogue than normal experiential content, so we appreciate your willingness to venture into the subjective subconscious of the thru-hiking experience. We hope that this series on the Waterloo-Pinckney Trail inspires you to seek out your own adventures within the Detroit region, and we will continue to seek out the world-class outdoor opportunities within our environment that are waiting for you to rediscover them. As always, we can't wait to see you out there. Do you maintain or regularly hike on a particular trail? Any suggestions for which "hidden gem" destination we should spotlight next? Let us know in the comments!

Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This edition treks across Brighton Recreation Area's "hiding in plain sight" gem: the Kahchin Trail. Join us as we explore deep into the heart of Brighton's woodlands along this short-but-sweet trail! Sometimes I dread Saturday mornings. That may read as blasphemous or ludicrous on face value. Allow me to elaborate. On a rainy weekday, most adults have their schedule more or less locked in for the day. They wake up, shower, head to work, get the kids to school, handle projects or chores, prepare meals, etc., etc. Of course there's some variation of these tasks from day-to-day, but as a whole, we'd be willing to bet that 80-90% of your weekday itinerary is spoken for. That structure goes right out the window on a beautiful, clear-skied Saturday. Between household projects, social commitments, and recreational ambitions, Saturday mornings can entail a "paralysis of choices." Especially considering the immensity of outdoor recreational outlets that we have before us in the Detroit region, we at Expedition Detroit have admittedly struggled determining which experience to prioritize over all the others. Would I have enough time to kayak and hike at Island Lake? What about a quick Maybury ride before shooting out to Brighton? Maybe Proud Lake has thawed enough for a paddle to Milford? Are Alpine Valley or Mt. Holly still open for this skiing season? See? Choices. Lots and lots of choices, which are often limited by other factors like family, pets, or other responsibilities. Last Saturday, after completing a morning of household projects, I knew that I had to get my trail pup Lucy outside before evening commitments set in. We had roughly a two hour window. Not enough time for a paddle. Way too much time for a neighborhood walk. Just enough time for a shorter, scenic hike. After some meaningful dialogue, Lucy and I landed on a "new-to-us" trail: Brighton's Kahchin Trail. An offshoot of the far more popular Penosha Trail that I had hiked past countless times, but had yet to actually explore. The perfect, shorter trail for our window. And, ultimately, my new go-to recommendation for a shorter, yet astoundingly beautiful, hiking destination. It is our privilege to reintroduce the Kahchin Trail and Brighton Recreation Area now. MEET BRIGHTON RECREATION AREA Here at Expedition Detroit, we have a bias towards the remarkable. Experiences, landscapes, stories, and equipment that dramatically redefine previous perceptions - and most often misconceptions - of Detroit's outdoor industry. We actively search for the unique opportunities that leave both visitors and life-long residents of the Detroit region in awe of the world-class destinations waiting just around the corner. Exploring Brighton Recreation Area and its 4,947 acres represents one such opportunity. The destination's dramatic landscapes, pristine lakes, and surprisingly steep ridge lines trace the park's 25,000 year history, when receding glaciers forever etched their mark into park's defining moraine hills and other geographic features. The first modern settlements to the area arrived in the 1820s, resulting in the largely unsuccessful cultivation of the rugged terrain and eventual abandonment by the 1940s. Tracing the post-World War II boom in recreation that inspired the foundation of many other Michigan state parks, the Michigan Department of Conservation first established Brighton Recreation Area in 1944 and has since continued to increase its acreage over the decades. The "Brighton Rec" of 2024 continues to pack a knock-out punch with its full menu of outdoor pursuits. Scattered throughout the park's hills, dense forests, marshlands, and lakes, recreationists can pursue mountain biking, hiking, trail running, equestrianism (mostly throughout the western segments of the park), paddling, swimming, fishing, hunting, camping, and cross-country skiing. For camping, Brighton maintains several reservation-only campgrounds, with its Appleton Lake and Murray Lake campgrounds constituting the park's two "rustic" camping options. For hikers, Brighton also proudly features one of the Great State of Michigan's favorite trails: the Penosha Trail. This ~5 mile loop - described as a "quintessential Michigan hike" - features the best of the Jackson Interlobate Range's rolling hills, mature pine forests, and wildlife-teeming marshlands. On a related note, it's also our most popular guided hike offering. EXPLORE BRIGHTON'S PENOSHA TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! While most hikers arrive to Bishop Lake's shores looking to conquer Penosha, Brighton's most beloved trail also provides the gateway to a lesser known - yet arguably just as beautiful - experience. Literally a "little" trail nestled entirely within Penosha's larger ring. An escape into the isolated heart of Brighton without even needing to break 2 miles. Ladies and gentlemen, meet the Kahchin Trail: Brighton's hidden hiking gem. HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance: 1.7 miles Elevation Gain: 141 feet Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Parking available at Bishop Lake trailhead (Michigan Recreation Passport required) When you're heading out from Brighton's main Bishop Lake Trailhead, one of the most important - and confusing - navigational hurdles hits roughly 0.1 miles into your hike. As depicted below, the trail is abruptly bombarded with signage due to the voluminous mountain biking and hiking trails that diverge from the same intersection. In order to save you the 5 minutes required to check your map and confirm your heading, simply keep right through this intersection until the trail dead ends at trail marker #7. Then turn left. For those of us not already fluent in Ojibwe, "Kahchin" is loosely translated as "short," while "Penosha" is translated as "long." These descriptors are accurate, given Penosha's 4.9 miles to the Kahchin Trail's 1.7. With this literary distinction in mind, note that you will follow the relatively flat route of the Penosha Trail for the first 0.6 miles of the Kahchin Trail. It's very had to miss due to Brighton's excellent signage, but don't forget to keep an eye out for the Kahchin Trail turn-off at trail marker #8. While some readers certainly wouldn't mind adding nearly 3 miles to their hike, anyone that selected the Kahchin Trail due to time constraints or desired physical exertion will find themselves in a dicey situation by missing the turn. Just remember to follow the yellow signage throughout your hike and you'll be just fine. In our opinion, the Kahchin Trail hike doesn't really start until you've started trekking south past this trail marker. We're talking especially to any readers that might be on the fence about hiking Kahchin due to its "Easy" rating on AllTrails. In our professional opinion, this trail is only rated as such due to its low mileage. If the Kahchin Trail were just as long as Penosha, then it would surely be "Moderate" ranked - honestly, possibly even higher. You'll witness this for yourself during the 0.4 mile climb that immediately follows the Kahchin Trail turn-off. As you gradually climb south, the hardwood forests surrounding you steadily consume the trail deep within its rolling acres. The Kahchin Trail loop doesn't waste any time taking you deep into one of the most wild stretches of Brighton Recreation Area, far away from any intersecting mountain biking or bridle paths. Especially when hiking or trail running during the full foliage of late spring or summer, this segment of the trail will quickly engulf your within its forested wonderland. Right at the top of this climb is a natural feature accurately designated "the Rock Bath" (featured in the cover photo). If hiking in early spring, you'll know that you're getting close to it when you hear the deafening sound of the frogs and toads engaging in their seasonal mating rites. The small pond located directly below the Rock Bath apparently serves as sacred ground for regional amphibian procreation. We're not biologists, but the sheer volume of males calling out to females certainly gives off that vibe. The Rock Bath itself is located just a few yards off of the trail to your left. You can't miss it, and the stones provide a fantastic photo opportunity with their contrast against the natural scenery surrounding it. The location also provides panoramic views of the pond and surrounding woodlands below. We absolutely recommend pausing your hike here for a few moments to enjoy the vista. But wait - this "short trail" has much more in store for you. Just below the Rock Bath, the trail descends 0.2 miles towards a bench with stunning views of the surround forest and its shockingly dramatic moraine ridge lines. Especially during "stick season" when views are unencumbered by leaves or snow, this vantage points provides an idyllic opportunity for wildlife viewing or backcountry scouting. Mark our words - if the Detroit region finds itself blessed by a freak mid-spring dump of 6+ inches of snow, we'll be climbing up and skiing down the ~200 ft. of elevation gain along those ridges. Beyond this bench, the Kahchin Trail flattens briefly before one final, somewhat steep ascent due north. Past this high point at the 1.3 mile marker, the trail kicks off its gradual 0.4 mile descent back towards the trailhead. You'll link back up with the Penosha Trail at trail marker #12 (turn right, the signage is not very Kahchin Trail-friendly when approaching from the south). Now that you've rejoined the well-trodden Penosha Trail, all that's left of this hike is a safe crossing of Bishop Lake Complex Rd., staying on-trail to avoid wandering into an archery range, and continuing straight until linking up with the main trail head. Or, you could bank right again at trail marker #7 to run it back along the Kahchin Trail - or take on the full Penosha. You couldn't go wrong either way. WEEKEND BONUS TIPS Pick an adventure. Any adventure. Guess what - you're just 10 minutes away from starting on it. That's the caliber of outdoor experiences immediately available to wonderfully-spoiled recreation hubs like Brighton, Michigan. Even if you were to limit your geographic scope to just Brighton Rec - no, even just the Bishop Lake Trailhead area - you would already be well-positioned to pair your Penosha Trail hike with a mountain biking, backpacking, or paddling expedition. Now that we're heading into the warmer months, we especially recommend bringing your bike along for the ride to tackle Brighton Rec's full MTB Loop Trail System: a heart-pounding 14.8 miles in total that constitutes one of only three "Black Diamond" ranked trails existing within the Detroit region. Beyond Brighton Rec, we advise allocating the rest of your recreational weekend around seasonal outdoor opportunities. Has fresh snow covered the trails? Awesome - head over to either Mt. Brighton ski resort to carve your tracks into groomed runs or take on nordic skiing at Huron Meadows Metropark's nationally-acclaimed facilities. Does the summer sun have you heated? No sweat - allow the Huron River to cool you down, especially in light of the pristine paddling opportunities waiting for your launch at Kensington Metropark and Island Lake State Recreation Area. Again, pick any adventure and a general direction. Regardless of the season or conditions, we guarantee that you will find a destination around the Brighton area to scratch that recreational itch. We can't wait to see you out there. EXPLORE ISLAND LAKE'S YELLOW TRAIL WITH EXPEDITION DETROIT! The #TrailTuesday Series idea started as a recommendation from readers looking for a deeper analysis into the individual trails that define Detroit's vast network. One of our main goals for this platform is to produce content that reflects the outdoor interests and desires of our community, so please continue to provide us with your suggestions via our contact form or here in the comments!

In the blink of an eye, spring has arrived in Detroit! Welcome to March: the epitome of "shoulder season" recreation where days can start with a morning cycle and finish with powder skiing. As you navigate this most unpredictable of months, here are the top 5 outdoor events near Detroit for capitalizing on March's recreational opportunities! Shoulder. Season. There are no better two words for describing what Detroit region recreationists experience in March when trying to plan for a full day of outdoor experiences. If you're a glass-half-full kind of person, then March should represent your favorite month of the year. For the next few weeks, you could have an opportunity to run on dry trails in the morning and snowshoe through powder in the evening. Or embrace a crisp morning hike before basking in the warmth of a mid-afternoon kayak. Our most coveted parks are still largely vacant of warmer-weather crowds. The most sought-after river routes or campsites are available for your recreational leisure. Oh, and as a cherry on top, most state park drinking regulations don't take effect until April 1st. Sláinte. On the other hand...March has a tendency to kind of suck. This month is already too warm to ski at the Big Four Resorts, often too cold to paddle, too muddy to bike, too early to hunt...etc., etc. If navigated poorly, recreationists can easily find themselves simply trying to survive a period of recreational purgatory. We at Expedition Detroit align ourselves with the pro-March agenda. Conditions be damned, we're firmly in the friluftsliv, "there's no such thing as bad weather just bad clothing" crowd. However, especially for the "March Deniers" among us, we thought that we'd curate this list of Top 5 Outdoor Events to help ease your passing from winter into spring. 1. Gaze into the Cosmos at a Dark Sky Preserve March 9th  | Point Pelee National Park | 7:30 p.m. The days may finally be getting lighter, but the stars at Point Pelee National Park - the single best stargazing destination in the Detroit region - still shine as bright as ever! Point Pelee's "Dark Sky Nights" are especially catered towards star-gazing tourists willing to brave near-freezing temperatures at night, with amenities including extended visitor hours, seasonal star charts, and the combined natural beauty of the park and the cosmos. But wait- there's more. This month's "Dark Sky Night" also includes a special Indigenous Astronomy Presentation event prior to sundown. The presentation will be led by members of the Oneida Wolf Clan and enlighten participants on how the careful observation of the stars, moon, sun, and other celestial bodies by Indigenous Peoples remains a rich and foundational source for the origins of modern astronomy. 2. Run for the Gold at a St. Patrick's Day 5K March 10th and 16th | Throughout Detroit Region There's only one time of year where waking up to any song by the Dropkick Murphys is not only acceptable, but culturally-respectable. As well as slamming a pre-race Guinness. Or kissing anyone with freckles or red hair, assuming that their green t-shirt of choice explicitly invites said kiss. That beautiful time of year, my friends, is St. Patrick's Day - a day of remembrance of the "Old Country" for us Irish, acceptable debauchery, bag-pipe filled music, crowded pubs, and a festive leprechaun-themed 5K races. Detroit's oldest and most Irish neighborhood, Corktown, will be hosting its 41st running of the "Corktown Races" on March 10th. Other fantastic St. Paddy's-themed races include RF Events' "Shamrocks & Shenanigans" on the same day in Ann Arbor and the "Lucky Leprechaun Race" on March 16th in Utica. 3. Earn your Slice of Pi(e) March 14th | Virtual For most of us, when you think of a "special day in March," you probably think of St. Patrick's Day. Obviously. But, if you time-travel back to your middle school years (apologies in advance), we all remember that one kid who came to school on March 14th, with a chocolate-chip pie under their arm, decorated in icing with one archaic symbol that you haven't thought of since your geometry exam: π. "Ah, that's right," you should be thinking right about now. "Pi day." Pi - the Greek trigonometric symbol that mathematically represents the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter - is shorthand calculated as "3.14." As such, March 14th is celebrated as "Pi Day" among mathletes and recreationists alike due to its correlation with the number. While Pi Day is internationally-recognized as a day to commemorate math, we at Expedition Detroit choose to celebrate by extending our typical mid-week 5K by 0.04 miles. There's even a virtual event sponsored by Epic Races to inspire runners to get outside on the 14th. Circular routes are strongly encouraged. 4. Close Out Flannel Season with a Lumberjack Pancake Run March 23rd | Detroit, Michigan | 9:00 a.m. Flannel. Flapjacks. Finish lines. Can you think of a better trio for closing out "Flannel SZN" in the Detroit region? We sure can't, and we think that whoever thought of this race at the DNR's "Outdoor Adventure Center" deserves a raise. This themed "Lumberjack Pancake" 5K race will traverse the Dequindre Cut, starting in front of the Outdoor Adventure Center. The course is flat and fast, and the race's "swag" includes a custom medal, lumberjack buff, free entry to the Outdoor Adventure Center beginning at 10 a.m., and a big pancake breakfast. All participants are encouraged to wear their best flannel apparel and sport their best lumberjack beard. 5. Make a Dual Dash at the Bad Bunny 5K March 26th | River Bends Park | 8:15 a.m. Runners tend to fall in two, starkly opposed camps: road runners and trail runners. While we at Expedition Detroit prefer our trails, it truly doesn't take much to twist our arm into a solid road race. Still, the constant dichotomy between the two race genres can create notable tension across Detroit's running faithful - especially when races align on the same day. Would it really be so hard to combine the events..? Well, Bad Bunny has the best news for us all: not at all. This month, head over to River Bends Park in Shelby Township for a 5K race - trail and/or paved. That's right, this epic race features a dirt trail race kicking off at 8:15 a.m. AND a paved race at 9:15 a.m. (or both if you register for the Double Bad Bunny option). BONUS: Explore Your State Parks with Expedition Detroit! All March  | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas Winter hibernators, rejoice! The return of warming temperatures means that you can leave those extra layers at home - while also not worrying about crowds, bugs, or 5 p.m. sunsets. In other words, RIGHT NOW is the perfect time to find your next favorite trail - and the Expedition Detroit team knows just where to lead you! Check out our current offerings of guided trips covering the Detroit region's most beautiful state parks. This March, we are planning a select offering of guided hiking, night hiking, and - in the event of a surprise blizzard - snowshoeing day trips throughout Metro Detroit. For anyone interested in our guided snowshoe treks, note that we offer no-risk reservation transfer options for any treks that are cancelled due to conditions. In other words, we guarantee that you will enjoy a world-class outdoor experience! The Expedition Detroit team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider of guided hikes, backpacking expeditions, and trail running coach across ELEVEN of the Detroit region's most pristine state parks and recreation areas. Each of our guides has the field experience, wilderness first aid training, park knowledge, and outdoor passion that you can - and should - expect from any world-class trail experience. P.S. Subscribers to our content get discounts on our guided trips AND online store items... Explore Brighton State Recreation Area with Expedition Detroit! Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Love. Blue skies. Trails. If that trio sounds like an amazing time to you, then a February spent in Detroit's outdoors may become your new favorite month of the year - especially with these top 10 outdoor events (and hopefully more snow...) near Detroit coming down the pipeline! February in Detroit's outdoors will always keep you guessing. One day you'll have your snowshoes strapped on tight, trekking through a foot+ of powder looking for backcountry ski lines. A week later and you're running the same line with your trail runners, shorts, and a light long-sleeve shirt. These "shoulder-season conditions" typically cause outdoorists a degree of justifiable annoyance. Especially towards the end of March and early April, after weeks and weeks of mud, you're ready for Pachamama to make up her mind on whether winter's frost or summer's heat will carry the day. Beyond the bipolar conditions, we at Expedition Detroit believe such frustration to result from the prolonged nature of that seasonal purgatory. Days and days of drizzle, clouds, and mud. Inescapable, unforgiving mud. Hold on - don't write-off February as a "shoulder-season prelude" quite yet. Fortunately for Detroit's outdoor community, February is solidly not shoulder-season, meaning our default conditions will inevitably revery to glistening snow, deep powder, and trails perfectly groomed for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. This month's fate is not sealed in mud - ideally-frozen trails will return soon. On the other end of the spectrum, abnormally-warm conditions like those we are currently experiencing should be regarded as a gift from the recreational gods. Bust out the shorts and running shoes. Take your road bike out for a spin. Even take the tent out of storage for a night of comfortable winter camping. Carpe diem each of these spring-ish days in early February. In this season of love, we encourage each of you to fall deeply in love with each sporadic moment that February may throw at us. Heat waves spent on the trail. Deep frosts flying down the hill. And if you're looking for easy "Valentine's Season" date ideas, well, these top 10 outdoor events near Detroit may provide the perfect ice breaker for your new recreational love. 1. Fall in Love with Winter along the Detroit River Throughout February  | Valade Park, Detroit, Michigan "When in doubt, head to the Detroit Riverfront." That has been our go-to advice for visitors to Downtown Detroit for the last decade, and it has become an easier and easier sell thanks to the ground-breaking team at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. All February long, head down to Valade Park for a full schedule of programs and events, including the return of their signature themed weekends, winter wellness activities, and so much more. The highlights include their Mardi Gras festival (THIS WEEKEND, February 9th-11th), a Lunar New Year celebration (February 23rd-25th), "Fireside Fridays," and "Self Care Sundays." On top of all of this, you'll have the opportunity to explore the best riverwalk in America - for three consecutive years running. 2. Clear some Calories for Fat Tuesday at the Paczki Run February 10th  | Hamtramck, Michigan | 10 a.m. Fitness fanatics, brace yourselves - the paczkis and all of their delicious temptations are coming. Fortunately for all of us watching our waistlines this winter, the annual "Paczki Run" in Hamtramck provides an efficient outlet to clear out some caloric space before the pastries come calling. The 5K run guides participants on a tour of Hamtramck - "the world in 2 square miles" - before concluding a finish line stocked with beer and...you guessed it...fresh paczkis. 3. Viva la Après at Detroit's Big Four Ski Resorts Throughout February | Alpine Valley, Mt. Brighton, and Mt. Holly Ski Resorts Of all of the time-honored traditions associated with a ski trip, you would be hard-pressed to beat a good ol' fashion Après-ski. For the uninitiated, "Après" is loosely defined as any pre or post-ski activity that typically involves a healthy level of rivalry or debauchery. And don't worry, friends - Detroit's Big Four Ski Resorts have plenty of Après to go around. The main highlights this month include live music at Alpine Valley, "Bloody Mary Bar Sundays" at Mt. Holly, and the Dew After Dark event at Mt. Brighton. 4. Earn the Couch at the Super 5K February 11th  | Novi, Michigan | 8:30 a.m. Let's all recognize an indisputable fact: we in the Detroit region will still be in a state of mourning this weekend after the Detroit Lions' loss in the NFC Championship. ICYMI, we at Expedition Detroit just published an article focused on the Lions in an effort to process their historic, culture-redefining, and ultimately heart-wrenching exit just short of the Big Game. That being said...Super Bowl Sunday is a de facto American national holiday, even if the Feds never formally acknowledge it as one. And, whenever there's a holiday, there will always be an appropriately themed holiday 5K run to support it. For the Detroit region, our premiere Super Bowl 5K run - the "Super 5K" - is annually hosted by our friends at RF Events. Lace up the shoes, burn some pregame calories, and earn that spot on the couch! 5. Explore Your State Parks with Expedition Detroit! All February  | 11 Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas Deep powder or blue skies, freezing temps or 60º bliss. For us at Expedition Detroit, it doesn't matter what crazy weather February may throw at us - we'll keep leading guided trips across the Detroit region's most beautiful state parks, and we hope that you'll join us! This month, we are planning a select offering of guided hiking, snowshoeing, and night hiking day trips throughout Metro Detroit. For anyone interested in our guided snowshoe treks, note that we offer no-risk reservation transfer options for any treks that are cancelled due to conditions. In other words, we guarantee that you will enjoy a world-class outdoor experience. The Expedition Detroit team is proud to represent the Michigan DNR's largest commercial provider of guided hikes, backpacking expeditions, and trail running coach across ELEVEN of the Detroit region's most pristine state parks and recreation areas. Each of our guides has the field experience, wilderness first aid training, park knowledge, and outdoor passion that you can - and should - expect from any world-class trail experience. P.S. Subscribers to our content get discounts on our guided trips AND online store items... Explore Maybury State Park at Night with Expedition Detroit! 6. Embrace the WTF Life at Winter Trail Fest 2024 February 17th | Island Lake State Recreation Area | 11:30 a.m. Freezing temperatures. Snow-covered trails. Half-marathon trail racing event. If at least one of these descriptors gave you a "WTF?" sentiment coupled with curiosity, then congratulations - you've found the perfect mid-winter racing event. If logging serious miles in the dead of winter is moderately appealing to you, then we strongly encourage joining the off-season running faithful at the the third annual "Winter Trail Fest's" half-marathon or 5-mile race events. Bonus points if you also join in at June's "Summer Trail Fest Ultra and Half Marathon," appropriately acronymed "STFU." 7. Feel the Love at Cupid's Undie Run February 17th | Detroit, Michigan | 12 p.m. You really didn't think we'd end this "Events Article" without a Valentine's Day themed race, did you? Oh, and we found a good one. This year, strip down and feel the love (while probably going numb) at the "Cupid's Undie Run" through Downtown Detroit! Join thousands of runners in cities all across the U.S. to support patients affected by neurofibromatoses, a genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and affects 1 in every 3,000 births. The run appropriately starts with ample drinking and dancing to warm up, followed by a mile(ish) run in your best undies, before concluding with an epic dance party at the finish line. 8. Cure your Winter Blues on a "Nourished by Nature" Hike February 17th | Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center | 1 p.m. Just like any other undertaking in life, adding a higher purpose to outdoor recreation - such as supporting conservation while hiking, skiing, or hunting - undoubtedly makes the experience more memorable and enjoyable. This month, the Clinton River Watershed Council (the "CRWC") invites you to join in on one such opportunity: a guided hike through at the Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center, complete with a pre-hike coffee and hot cocoa bar. All proceeds go towards CRWC's mission to protect, enhance, and celebrate the Clinton River, its watershed, and Lake St. Clair. 9. Light Up the Night at Dew After Dark February 23rd  | Mt. Brighton Ski Area  | 7 p.m. Back for its second year, the team at Mt. Brighton will be lighting up its terrain park with their epic "Dew After Dark" freestyle event! Beyond fully-lit jumps, rails, and slopes, Dew After Dark will feature MTN DEW samples, exclusive Dew After Dark swag, "Rail Jam," live music, glow sticks, and the good vibes that you can only expect at Mt. Brighton. 10. Close Out February with a Full Moon Hike February 24th  | Island Lake Recreation Area | 6:30 p.m. For nocturnal recreationists, hiking under a full moon provides one of the most unique and naturally illuminating experiences of any calendar month. Especially on a cloudless night, there's an indescribable magic to night hiking without needing to turn your headlamp on thanks to the brilliance of a full moon. If you're looking for a more curated experience for full moon hiking, then head over to Island Lake State Recreation Area for their "Full Moon Night Hike" event! This guided 4-mile night hike on the Hickory Ridge Trail will be partially lit with lanterns, but headlamps or flashlights may be needed on the other parts of the trail. The DNR recommends that participants wear ice cleats (such as Kahtoola Microspikes) as it may be hard to see slippery patches. There will also be a campfire at the beginning and end of the hike courtesy of the Friends of Island Lake! Explore Island Lake State Recreation Area with Expedition Detroit! Keeping with the holiday spirit, we couldn't pass up an opportunity to tell you all - our growing, dynamic community - how much we love and appreciate you. Wishing you nothing but the best for this month and rest of the 2024 winter season. And, as always, we can’t wait to see you out one, two, or all of these events! Do you host an upcoming outdoor event that you would like to be featured in a future article? If yes, then we would love to hear from you! Please contact us at info@expeditiondetroit.com to discuss Expedition Detroit feature opportunities.

Detroit's snow may have disappeared this month, but don't worry - ski season isn't over yet! Fortunately there are plenty of premiere winter destinations within driving distance of the Motor City where the lifts are still running. Check out these 5 world-class ski resorts near Detroit to close out your ski season! Here's a forgetful fact: March is predominantly a winter month. For our community of hikers, paddlers, and mountain bikers, that's certainly not a welcomed reminder. In fact, we'd be willing to bet that spring's unseasonably warm arrival has been a blessing to the senses for you. For our cold weather faithful - the powder seekers, groomer rippers, and snow-covered trail aficionados - winter's abrupt exit from the Detroit region has been jarring to say the least. As I type these words, ALL of Detroit's "Big Four Ski Resorts" have shuttered for the season (Alpine Valley and Pine Knob, the last two standing, closed for the season today). Did this year's El Niño winter deliver a bust for Detroit's snow recreational opportunities? Yes - a definitive yes. However, contrary to popular belief, winter did actually arrive to the Great Lakes region, and some areas received generously more snow than others. So much so that certain resorts remain open into mid-March. That's right, friends: #SkiSZN in the Great Lakes isn't 100% over yet. Looking to squeeze one final ski trip into the 2024 season? You've come to the right place - here are 5 premiere ski resorts near Detroit where you can still capitalize on late winter skiing and snowboarding opportunities! 1.  BOYNE MOUNTAIN RESORT | Boyne Falls, Michigan Travel Time from Detroit: 3 hours 40 minutes Pass Affiliation: Ikon Day Pass Price: $59.00 Lifts Still Running: 4/10 Why You Should Visit: Since first opening for the 1948 season with a single chairlift, a single run, and a single warming hut, Boyne Mountain Resort still remains one of Michigan's premiere destinations for world-class winter recreation opportunities. Beyond the resort's 65 trails, Boyne also offers additional activities for visitors like night riding, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, ice skating, and the world-famous Sky Bridge. Favorite Run: The Meadows 2.  THE HIGHLANDS  | Harbor Springs, Michigan Travel Time from Detroit: 4 hours Pass Affiliation: Ikon Day Pass Price: $52.00 Lifts Running: 7/8 Why You Should Visit: Boasting the highest vertical and most skier and rider-accessible acreage in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, The Highlands is known for its hospitality and family friendliness. The Highlands ski resort is home to an extensive trail system that provides terrain for all ability types. Beyond skiing and riding, The Highlands offers tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat tire biking, ziplining, and more, including 4 golf courses, making it a year-round destination. Favorite Run: Rob Roy 3.  BLUE MOUNTAIN SKI RESORT  | The Blue Mountains, Ontario, Canada Travel Time from Detroit: 4 hours 50 minutes Pass Affiliation: Ikon Day Pass Price: $94.00 (CAD) Lifts Running: 8/11 Why You Should Visit: Located along the shores of Georgian Bay in Ontario, Canada, spanning the Niagara Escarpment, Blue Mountain Ski Resort has evolved into a year-round outdoor recreation destination. Blue Mountain, which is approximately 100 miles north of Toronto, is routinely ranked as one of the top family-friendly resorts and ski areas in Canada. The resort is also conveniently located near Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Favorite Run: Memory Lane 4.  MOUNT-TREMBLANT RESORT  | Mount-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada Travel Time from Detroit: 9 hours 35 minutes Pass Affiliation: Ikon Day Pass Price: $135.00 (CAD) Lifts Running: 12/14 Why You Should Visit: Any trip to Mont Tremblant Resort can only be described as a "one-of-a-kind experience." Both on the mountain and within the pedestrian village located at its base, Mount-Tremblant provides a year-round recreational wonderland for its visitors. The resort receives abundant snowfall and has an extensive state-of-the-art snowmaking infrastructure with over 1,000 snow guns. There is a great mix of terrain that caters to all ability levels from beginners to experts. Favorite Run: Jasey-Jay Anderson 5. MOUNT BOHEMIA | Houghton, Michigan Travel Time from Detroit: 9 hours 40 minutes Pass Affiliation: Bohemia Pass (independent) Day Pass Price: $92.00 Lifts Running: 2/2* Why You Should Visit: Recently crowned USA Today's #1 ski resort in North America, Mount Bohemia is known for its expert terrain, consistent powder, and panoramic views of Lac La Belle - obviously making it a prime spot for Midwest spring skiers. Due to its position on the Upper Keweenaw Peninsula, Mount Bohemia's lake effect snow is dry and powdery, and snowfall averages about 273 inches a season. BoHo also boasts the largest vertical drop in the Midwest, and is the only lift-serviced ski resort in North America that does not groom. Consequentially, Mount Bohemia is NOT for beginners. The resort usually remains open until mid to late-April. Favorite Run: Backcountry runs below Bull Moose. *Mount Bohemia features a "shuttle lift" service that picks up backcountry skiers and riders throughout the base of the resort. Have you visited any of these ski resorts near Detroit before? Do you have special insider tips for new visitors? Let us know in the comments - and don't forget to share this article with any of your adventure buddies who may be interested in joining you on your next best winter (or spring) road trip!

The arrival of Southeast Michigan's peak fall colors transforms the beautiful Huron River into a can't-miss autumnal destination. Here are the six best routes for paddling, experiencing, and capturing the river's vibrant colors. Let’s start with the obvious: there’s no wrong way to enjoy the Detroit region’s fall colors. While even just a short walk around your neighborhood will produce Pinterest-worthy foliage content, we at Expedition Detroit like to get a little more intrepid with our autumnal adventures. Trail runs and mountain biking sessions are obvious choices, but now that the temperatures are dropping and winter is almost ready for its grand entrance, we’re opting to explore via paddle while we still can. With that decision locked in, the logical follow-up question is where to drop in at. As we all know, there are seemingly endless water destinations to explore in our corner of the Great Lakes. If you really wanted to, you could honestly just grab an inflatable kayak or paddle board, pick a direction, and start walking a few miles before hitting a suitable body of water. For Expedition Detroit’s inaugural fall paddling, however, we’re going to exert a little more intentionality than that. We’re paddling the Huron River National Water Trail - the 104-mile river trail that defines the heart of the Detroit region’s most beautiful parks, forests, and trail towns. Even more specifically, we will be paddling down the following 6 routes for viewing the best of Southeast Michigan’s famous colors. 1. Proud Lake State Recreation Area to Milford Central Park Distance: 5.1 miles Launch: North Launch - Proud Lake State Recreation Area Dock: Milford Central Park I must admit that as an adopted son of Milford, I have paddled this route probably a hundred times. Take that admission as you will, but my argument is that my repeated drop-ins are a testament to just how fantastic this northern segment of the Huron truly is - especially when it is set ablaze by Michigan’s fall foliage. The route begins at a DNR-maintained boat launch just east of Proud Lake State Recreation Area. Follow the westward current into the larger body of the park’s namesake, Proud Lake. Continue to follow the river’s northwest segments (otherwise you’ll find yourself in one of many dead-end segments, surrounded by equally confused geese) until reaching the only portage of this route: the idyllic Moss Lake Dam. Past the dam, you’ll float amidst a sea of golden and red leaves for 1.3 miles in one of Proud Lake’s best areas for solitude. Wildlife sightings are abundant here, especially white tail deer, great egrets, swans, waterfowl, turkeys, and muskrats. After passing a popular beach launch just east of Wixom Road, you will keep paddling through another relatively isolated segment that gradually approaches civilization. Natural wetlands give way to privately-owned shorelines, and a series of bridges signal that you are indeed leaving the wilderness and paddling into the heart of the Village of Milford. Remaining highlights along this route include the historic Oak Grove Cemetery and passing through Milford’s historic Stone Arch Bridge. The route reaches its final destination at Milford Central Park immediately after crossing under the Main Street Bridge. Bonus Tip: Between the Stone Arch and Main Street Bridges, you may have noticed a few kayaks pulled off onto a concrete dock along a south shore hill. We strongly advise that you follow suit and have a pint or two with our friends at River’s Edge Brewery, aptly named for its direct link to the Huron River. Known by locals simply as “The Brewery,” we at Expedition Detroit are not only big fans of their beer, but also the active stewardship and conservation advocacy that The Brewery has engaged in towards protecting the Huron. Cheers to you, River’s Edge! 2. Hubbell Dam to Upper Kent Lake (Kensington Metropark) Distance: 3.8 miles Launch: Milford Dam Portage Dock: Martindale Drive Shore Fishing Dock While this is the shortest route detailed in this article, this segment of the Huron River is easily one of the least visited and most beautiful. Conveniently hiding in plain sight between the extremely popular Hubbell Pond and Kent Lake bodies of the Huron, this route starts at the base of the roaring Hubbell Dam. The force from the dam will propel you down the initial twists and turns of this route, which include passing under the very scenic Camp Dearborn Trail Bridge and no-so-scenic General Motors Road Bridge. Once you pass these bridges, you will enter unceremoniously into the most northern and sparsely visited portion of Kensington Metropark. You and your company will most likely be the only paddlers on this segment, so be sure to relish the tranquility in your virtually undisturbed natural surroundings. Signs of human existence will return briefly as you pass under Group Camp Road, where equestrians will likely be riding alongside or wading into the river. This is also the location of the first canoe campground along the Huron River National Water Trail, so you could dock to pitch a tent here if you planned ahead and made reservations. The final 2.4 miles of this tranquil segment guide you closer and closer towards Kent Lake, the most predominant body of water within the Huron River. You will notice that the Huron gradually broadens as you approach Kent Lake, which could make for difficult paddling on windier days. Keep your eyes peeled for Kensington’s famous birds as well - sandhill cranes, great egrets, and herons draw bird watchers near and far to the park’s shorelines, although the best views are undoubtedly from the river. The route ends south of the Buno Road Bridge before the Huron becomes fully engulfed by Kent Lake. Bonus Tip: If feasible, we strongly recommend adding a segment or two of the Huron River to this recommended route. As referenced earlier, Hubbell Pond is a fantastic area to explore from the Milford Central Park launching point, including the Pettibone Creek tributary that runs through the heart of the park. On the other end of the route, you could spend a full day just exploring the shoreline and islands of Kent Lake - not to mention the voluminous recreational activities found within Kensington Metropark. 3. Kent Lake Dam to Island Lake Kayak Launch (Island Lake State Recreation Area) Distance: 5.4 miles Launch: Kent Lake Dam Portage Dock: Island Lake Placeway Kayak Launch This route should be titled the “Island Lake Grand Tour” - your vessel will take you on a scenic voyage through the heart of the park, starting at the foot of the powerful Kent Lake Dam and finishing in the southwest sector of one of the Detroit region’s hallmark state recreation areas. There is only one disclaimer about this route: the initial miles of the route are located uncomfortably close to the Island Lake Shooting Range. Seriously, the park could be mistaken for a Civil War reenactment during the weeks preceding firearm opening day of whitetail deer season (November 15th). So, if anyone in your crew has sensitivity to gunshot noises - including pets - you may want to launch a bit farther downstream. For those willing to brave the noise intrusion, however, this upper segment of the route is one of the most exciting and beautiful of the entire park. The powerful current from Kent Lake Dam forces you to stay alert as you navigate through boulders, logs, and submerged concrete barriers. Surprisingly, the wildlife viewing is also phenomenal - the egrets, cranes, turkeys, hawks, and deer must have grown accustomed to the constant barrage of gunfire, because they’re as plentiful as any other segment that I’ve ever paddled down. I’d suggest packing binoculars for this segment (and maybe earplugs). South of the Kensington Road Bridge, the twists and turns of the Huron will guide you along a journey through Island Lake’s ever-changing topography. Like an honest parent, I would never admit that I have a favorite destination in the Detroit region, but secretly, Island Lake may take the prize. The lakefront scenery of the northeastern portion of the park seamlessly fades into wetlands, wooded hills, thick boreal forest, and eventually prairie-esque grasslands along its southwestern edge. There are multiple areas to temporarily dock as you complete your journey too, including a sheltered bay used as a canoe access point 1.8 miles from Kent Lake Dam, Riverbend Picnic Shelter, and another canoe campground just 1.4 miles upstream from your docking point. Bonus Tip: Assuming that you utilized a pickup truck or similar large-capacity vehicle to transport your vessel, we also suggest bringing a mountain bike along for multi-sport adventures. Island Lake’s famous Blue and Yellow MTB Trails encircle and cross the Huron at several points within the park, with the canoe access point referenced earlier serving as a great base camp for launching successive paddling and biking expeditions. Just to demonstrate that we practice what we preach, my buddy and I tested the hypothesis that Island Lake is best explored on kayak and bike just last week. Our expectations were blown away. Stay tuned for a highlight reel. 4. Hudson Mills Metropark to Dexter-Huron Metropark Distance: 6.0 miles Launch: Milford Dam Portage Dock: Martindale Drive Shore Fishing Dock What do you get when you combine two metroparks with one of the region’s premiere trail towns? A fully-immersive “Pure Michigan” experience, featuring an uninterrupted highlight reel of one of the most beautiful paddling routes in the entire state. When the launching point for the route kicks off at the base of the Hudson Mills rapids, you already know that you’re in for a good time before you even push off from the shoreline of Hudson Mills Metropark and into the Huron. The majority of this route - 4 miles - comprises of one the most direct and fast-flowing sections of the Huron, entirely encapsulated by Hudson Mills Metropark on the river’s western bank. Wildlife sightings are bountiful here, but the most fun aspect of this segment of the river will be navigating around several logs, rocks, and other obstacles that you will approach at a steady pace. Don’t worry, these are all easily-navigable - hence the “fun” rather than “caution” descriptor. As you approach Downtown Dexter, you will notice that the bluffs around you rise to noticeable heights (which also showcase some of the most enviable house locations in the entire Detroit region). Mill Creek provides paddlers with an opportunity to voyage into the heart of Dexter and navigate through the Mill Creek Rapids. We have included this “detour” as part of this route since it truly entails a can’t-miss excursion from the main body of the Huron River. There are convenient docking locations at Mill Creek Park as well for continued land exploration. Back in the water and reunited with the Huron, the final 1.5 miles of this route returns you to nature as you quickly enter Dexter-Huron Metropark. Feel free to take your time rafting along this flowing yet mellow section of the river - the rapids are behind you, nature surrounds you, and you have every reason to tune the world out for a bit until your final docking destination appears on the eastern bank. Bonus Tip: Did we mention Dexter, one of our favorite trail towns in Michigan? We recommend using Dexter as your base camp for exploring this route not only via river, but by foot or bike. There is a walk/bike path that runs parallel to the Huron River and directly connects to both of the launching and docking locations mentioned above. If you plan correctly (and have two vehicles strategically placed), you can easily bike and kayak this route consecutively, including stops in Downtown Dexter for coffee at Joe and Rosie Coffee and Tea, lunch at the Dexter Riverview Cafe, and post-trail brews at The Beer Grotto. 5. Barton Nature Area to Gallup Park Distance: 5.6 miles Launch: Barton Nature Area Boat Launch Dock: Gallup Park Canoe and Kayak Launch As a Spartan alum, it slightly pains me to admit this, but credit is owed where credit is due: Ann Arbor is spectacularly beautiful in the fall, especially along the Huron River. Launching just below the Barton Dam, this route will showcase the best of Ann Arbor’s parks, hills, and picturesque cityscape. The initial highlight reel includes Bird Hills Nature Area, Bandemer Park, and Argo Nature Area - yes, which includes the Argo Cascades, a popular rapids section of the Huron that is better suited for kayaks rather than canoes or paddle boards. Below the rapids, you will find yourself in the heart of Ann Arbor. If you ever thought about venturing into amateur photography, well, this next segment will be as good of an opportunity as they come for testing your skills. The explosion of colors fostered by Riverside Park, Fuller Park, and - of course - the University of Michigan’s Nichols Arboretum will quickly fill up your camera’s memory card as you capture one potential postcard after another. Furstenburg Nature Area is the final natural landmark before reaching your final destination among the islands at Gallup Park. Your exit point is on the north shore of the river just past Huron Parkway. Bonus Tip: Especially if you’re paddling on a bluebird, clear-sky day, our general bonus tip is simply to take your time along this route and thoroughly enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. There are plentiful picnic spots along the route that are easily accessible from the river. We recommend packing in a book if you’re alone or a frisbee if with friends, as well as an Eno hammock for a midday snooze or relaxed river-watching from the shoreline. 6. French Landing Park to East Bend Picnic Area (Lower Huron Metropark) Distance: 5.6 miles Launch: French Landing Park Dock: East Bend Picnic Area (Lower Huron Metropark) Remember the first route on this list - the northernmost route that I have paddled several times? Well, this last recommended route forms the opposite end of the spectrum. Not only is it the southernmost route in this article, but it is the route that I am the least familiar with. As in I have never paddled it. Rest assured, however; that will change very, very soon. This final route launches from French Landing Park on the easternmost point of Belleville Lake. After a quick portage around the 1925 French Landing Dam, you’ll paddle under the French Landing Bridge Trail and immediately into Lower Huron Metropark. Despite navigating through the heart of Detroit’s southwestern suburbs, the metropark’s wooded shoreline will provide you with natural insulation from the bustling outer world. As you paddle under a canopy of fall colors, you will pass by several of Lower Huron’s landmarks, including fishing docks, idyllic pedestrian bridges, and campgrounds. You will reach your final destination - and final docking point of your fall colors grand tour of the Huron River - at the East Bend Picnic Area. Bonus Tip: Lower Huron Metropark hosts the Huron River National Water Trail’s fourth and final canoe campground (also the only canoe campground downstream of Ann Arbor). Especially given the lack of alternative campgrounds with immediate access to the river, we advise using Lower Huron Metropark as your basecamp for exploring the rest of the lower Huron over the course of a weekend. Assuming that you have the time and interest in doing so, you could ideally launch from Ypsilanti’s Spring Street Launch and paddle the entirety of Belleville Lake before reaching the campground for an overnight stay. Then, for our most ambitious of paddlers, it’s only a brisk 23.9 miles to the finish line where the Huron River meets Lake Erie. Put differently, Lower Huron Metropark is often the start of the final lap of the entire Huron River National Water Trail - if you feel the spirit of adventure nudging you to keep paddling (and your itinerary supports said continued paddling), we recommend allowing the current to keep you moving downstream. Please remember that these recommended routes are described as one-way, downstream paddling routes. If you plan to paddle these routes as described in this article, then you should plan ahead for transportation at the docking point. I typically address this logistical detail by either leaving my paddling companion’s vehicle at one endpoint while mine is parked at the other, or arranging for a pick-up at the docking location (I have endless gratitude for my wife’s countless pick-up services). If you are unable to arrange for a pick-up and looking for a phenomenal workout, you can also launch from one of the listed docking points, paddle upstream towards the corresponding launching point, and then return back downstream to your vehicle. I’ve emphasized paddling upstream since far too many new paddlers have royally screwed themselves by paddling downstream first. This mistake can easily lead to going farther than anticipated, underestimating the strength of the current, and then getting caught in a nightmare scenario where you lack the capacity to paddle back upstream. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, do NOT continue fighting a losing battle against the current until you’re completely fatigued. Paddle to the shoreline, securely dock your vessel, and rest both your muscles and mind until you can calmly assess the situation. Remember, we all know someone with a pick-up truck that can bail us out of a tough situation. Let’s end on a happier note, shall we? The Detroit region is unbelievably beautiful this time of year - so beautiful that determining how to maximize a fall colors experience can often pose an intimidating task. These six routes are intended to provide a cheat sheet for exploring the Huron River’s best routes under a vibrant canopy of red, orange, and yellow. Grab your paddle - we can’t wait to see you out there. This article references content further elaborated upon within the guide book Paddling Michigan, Hillstrom and Hillstrom (2001). We highly recommend this book for planning your adventures, exploring Michigan’s waterways from your armchair, or starting coffee table conversations.

The first installation of our #TrailTownSpotlight series, we're zeroing in on the specifics of what makes the Village of Milford, Michigan a can't-miss destination for every type of outdoor enthusiast. Check out our spotlight on Milford's essential parks, trails, and outfitters! Just like any other world-renown outdoor destination, some villages, cities, and townships in the Detroit region are slightly more blessed by the outdoor recreation gods than others. Beyond providing immediate access to the "best of the best" outdoor experiences and retailers, these destinations have invested significant resources into developing and sustaining a local outdoor-centric culture. These "Trail Towns" are the ideal launching points for your adventures, refueling stops for extra provisions, and watering holes for that essential post-trail beer. While we at Expedition Detroit celebrate and consistently aim to highlight our namesake city, we needed to kick off this series with a specific focus on Milford. Simply put, the immensity of outdoor recreation opportunities immediately accessible to this village inspired the launch of this business. Endless hours spent running, hiking, biking, paddling, and hunting along Milford's trails peaked our interest not only about what other recreational opportunities were hiding in plain sight near this small town, but the other vast and untapped outdoor experiences that remained unknown throughout our region. The attempt to answer those questions led to this business venture, website, and now this article. So, without further delay, here is our Trail Town Spotlight on Milford, Michigan: MEET MILFORD It is our pleasure to re-introduce Milford - a quintessential "Pure Michigan" destination for outdoor recreation. Founded in 1869, Milford has become well-known for its charming downtown, annual "Milford Memories" summer festival, idyllic access to the Huron River, and direct connections to 3 state recreation areas, Kensington Metropark, and several municipal parks. Milford's bountiful community events, restaurants, and local retailers provide year-round amenities for visitors of any interest, although we strongly believe that the village is best catered towards outdoor adventure-seekers and general nature enthusiasts. OUTDOOR HIGHLIGHTS Honestly, a better question would be what outdoor experience can you not do in and around Milford... For general running and road biking, the 3.5 mile Milford Trail runs from the parking lot of the Carls Family YMCA to the northern segments of Kensington Metropark's greater trail network. Surrounding the paved Milford Trail is the natural, Motor City Mountain Biking Association ("MCMBA")-maintained Milford Mountain Biking Trail, a 6.7 mile roller-coaster biking and trail running singletrack loop. The mountain biking adventures don't end there, however; Highland State Recreation Area's famous A-B-C-D loops and Proud Lake State Recreation Area's mountain biking trails are also immediately accessible from Downtown Milford. Certain sections of Highland and Proud Lake are also open to hunting, and Alpine Valley Mountain Resort is a quick five miles north of downtown. But wait, there's more. The Huron River flows directly through the heart of Downtown Milford, which transforms the village into an aquatically-crazed hotspot during peak summer paddling months. Starting from one of Proud Lake's several launching locations, you can handle downstream directly to Milford's Central Park, up Pettibone Creek for a maritime view of Milford's "Summer Concert Series" shows, and into Hubbell Pond. Further paddling adventures could take you all the way to Lake Erie if you follow the Huron River National Water Trail, although the local destinations typically involve either Kensington Metropark or Island Lake State Recreation Area. CAN'T MISS EXPERIENCE: Milford Bike Fest Hosted annually by the MCMBA, the Milford Bike Fest celebrates not only the sport of mountain biking during its peak season, but also the insanely interconnected-nature of Milford's greater trail system. While the Bike Fest at its core is a big community festival filled with MTB enthusiasts, the Bike Fest also encourages - no, celebrates - the exploration of the vast trail networks that are immediately accessible from Milford. The highest honor of the Bike Fest is completing the Century Challenge: a 100 mile distance challenge to ride the entirety of all 5 MCMBA trail systems that are reachable from Milford (Highland State Recreation Area, the Milford MTB Trail, Island Lake Recreation Area, the Proud Lake/Kensington Connector, and Hickory Glen). How does one properly refuel after 100 miles in the saddle of a mountain bike? We know at least one time-tested method: an outdoor burger and beer tent, complete with live music and your new best friends/riding buddies. Main Street Grill and Tavern in Downtown Milford - yes, the one adorned with a bicycle statute outside its enviable outdoor patio - hosts the official Bike Fest afterparty each year. Hands down one of the best parties of the year. BEST FOR THE FAMILY: Milford Central Park Of all of the admirable qualities of the Village of Milford, its public parks system is unquestionably the village's crown jewel. While Milford has six parks, Central Park stands out as the village's premiere family destination. Beyond the celebrated Summer Concert Series, Central Park hosts several year-round events at the LaFontaine Amphitheater and its picnic shelter. The park's amenities include a playscape area, tennis, pickle-ball, and basketball courts, summer volleyball courts that are converted into an ice rink in the winter, a baseball field, the historic Ford Powerhouse, and plentiful restrooms. Oh, and don't forget about Central Park's immediate access to the Huron River via its shoreline launch locations. OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Proud Lake Trail Running Proud Lake State Recreation Area is very well-known for fantastic trail running and hiking opportunities, so this addition may come as a surprise to some readers. However, the vast majority of non-equestrian or mountain biking visitors to the park never venture west of Wixom Road. Yes, I agree that the well-maintained trails within the eastern regions of the park are undoubtedly spectacular. That being said, the labyrinth of trails criss-crossing the western reaches of the park include some of the best trail running opportunities in the entire Detroit region. There are several access points to this trail network, with the most immediate access points from Downtown Milford being located on the south side of Garden Road (just beyond the Village Canoe Rental, best for solo running or biking access) and at the Proud Lake Equestrian Stage Area farther down the road (best for parking). This area is very popular for equestrians, mountain bikers, and in-season hunters, so always be courteous and mindful of your trail surroundings. If necessary, your exit strategies should be to either venture north towards a Garden Road outlet or east towards Wixom Road. Note: The trail network described above crosses over very active railroad tracks in two prominent locations. Always check your surroundings before attempting to cross any railroad tracks - you do NOT have the right of way when it comes to a 200-ton locomotive. FEATURED OUTFITTER: Blue Birch Outfitters Commonly referred to as "Milford's REI," Blue Birch Outfitters is Milford's premiere outfitter for outdoor clothing, gear, and accessories. Beyond carrying industry-leading brands like Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Osprey, and Black Diamond, Blue Birch also features Michigan-specific items and retailers throughout its hometown-centric store. Blue Birch is also a must-visit stop for outfitting your dog for their big next trail adventure (this is our golden retriever Lucy's favorite store in Milford). Better yet, Blue Birch supports their own loyalty program - an extremely valuable perk for regular customers like yours truly. MORNING FUEL: The Proving Grounds Coffee & Ice Cream Located conveniently across the street from Main Street Park, in the heart of Downtown Milford, the Proving Grounds Coffee & Ice Cream is a hometown favorite for pre-trail coffee and breakfast sandwiches. While the inside of the coffeeshop is ideal for easing into the morning with a cup of freshly-brewed coffee and a good book, the convenient walk-up window is a favorite for cyclists, hikers, or runners that are ready to hit the trail. The "Spicy Morning" breakfast sandwich is my personal favorite, although my in-laws are also big fans of Proving Grounds' gluten-free sandwich options. POST-TRAIL WATERING HOLE: River's Edge Brewing Company Yes, we've highlighted our friends at River's Edge Brewing Company before. And yes, we absolutely plan on doing so again. Why is that? Well, on top of their award-winning beer and welcoming environment, River's Edge has become a staple participant in and advocate for all matters Milford. The team at "The Brewery" regularly organizes community events like their annual Oktoberfest Festival, sponsors outdoor festivals like the Milford Bike Fest and Milford Memories, and supports Huron River conservation efforts in conjunction with the Huron River Watershed Council. Supporting local restaurants that provide excellent amenities leaves a good taste in your mouth; knowing that your dollars are actively being reinvested into your community truly makes the beer taste even better. Cheers to you, River's Edge. If you prefer something slightly stronger to wash down any lingering trail dust, then we also recommend stopping by Charlie's Still on Main for the best bourbon, whiskey, rye, and southern-style dishes in the village. Their jambalaya is my personal favorite dish, but you honestly can't go wrong at Charlie's - I refer to the establishment as "Ol' Reliable" when deciding where to take first-time visitors to the village out for dinner. This article only scratches the surface on all that Milford has to offer for its residents and visitors. For more information on local businesses, organizations, and outdoor recreation opportunities, be sure to check out fantastic local networks like Women in Milford and the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce. Do you live in Milford? Have any additional suggestions for our community's attention? Please feel free to suggest any extra experiences, retailers, or outdoor events in the comments below!

There's nothing like an early March snowstorm to remind Detroit that ski season isn't over! If you are looking to hit the slopes for the first time and need a helmet - or are way overdue for a replacement - then this is the article for you. Here are the best ski helmets for Winter 2023! Do you remember the last time that you thought about your helmet? I mean critically and thoroughly thought about your ski or snowboard helmet beyond that credit card swipe. Even just a quick review of its technical specifications, performance features, or functional longevity. Have no fear, friends - this article is not an Expedition Detroit community condemnation open letter. It's a gear review article, clean and simple. In fact, we're just as guilty of apathy towards our most important piece of equipment. Until very recently, that is. It's amazing how experiencing two direct helmet-to-tree collisions, while falling over 100 feet on double-black terrain in the Rocky Mountains, has an effect of bringing the importance of helmet qualifications to the forefront of your attention. If that scenario sounds oddly specific, well... yours truly lived through that exact scenario just over a week ago. I was fortunate enough to ski away with only jello legs and a slightly bruised ego (on a related note, check your DIN settings). If I hadn't been wearing my sturdy Bern helmet - or, God forbid, any helmet - my skiing days and/or life could have ended in those trees. Please don't wait until you're in a similar, extreme situation to give your helmet a second thought. To simplify any helmet-searching efforts, our team bunkered down and researched the best ski helmets for curating this list of the "Top 5 Best Ski Helmets" currently offered on the market. While all of these helmets contain the industry-standard safety requirements, each of these helmets also contain special features that differentiate their fit, comfort, style, and technical aspects from the rest of the market. You're going to like the way you ride in these buckets. 1. GIRO TOR SPHERICAL Brand: GIRO Rating: 4.7/5 Price: $249.95 Sizes: S-M-L Warranty: Limited Lifetime When it comes to protecting your noggin, compromising simply isn't an option. The Giro Tor Spherical Helmet is made for steep and deep conditions with the new MIPS® Spherical Technology™ that facilitates the highest level of protection. The adjustable ventilation allows you to maintain all-day comfort no matter the varying conditions, and the fit system helps make micro-adjustments a breeze even with gloves on. The new magnetic buckle closure is a one-handed operation that is easy to open and close. 2. SMITH NEXUS Brand: SMITH Rating: 4.9/5 Price: $325.00 Sizes: S-M-L Warranty: Limited Lifetime For the devout skier or snowboarder looking for premium fit, function, and protection, look to the Smith Nexus MIPS Helmet. A hybrid shell construction combines lightness and durability while maintaining a low profile (i.e. no bobblehead aesthetics here), and the helmet's features also include complete Koroyd® coverage AND MIPS for elevated protection. 3. PRET FURY X Brand: PRET Rating: 4.9/5 Price: $164.99 (CURRENTLY ON SALE) Sizes: S-M-L Warranty: One Year If anything is going to incite fury on a pow day, it's a hot, clammy, ill-fitting helmet. The Pret Fury X MIPS Helmet sets a new high mark for fit and comfort, with lightweight construction, the intuitive RCS QR Fit System, and breezy Level C Tuned Ventilation that allows riders to control airflow with a single lever. It's the go-to choice for Pret's pro athletes, and it deserves a spot on your dome, too. 4. ANON OSLO WAVECEL Brand: ANON Rating: 4.8/5 Price: $176.99 (CURRENTLY ON SALE) Sizes: S-M-L-XL Warranty: One Year Simplicity wins with the clean lines and versatile styling of the Anon Oslo WaveCel Helmet. An excellent all-around snow helmet whether you prefer to lap the park, explore the backside, or experience a little bit of everything, the Oslo WaveCel features a micro-adjustable BO A® 360 fit system that works in conjunction with the Fidlock® magnetic buckle and WaveCel® shock absorbing technology to give you ease of use and peace of mind. 5. SCOTT COULOIR TOUR Brand: SCOTT Rating: 4.7/5 Price: $161.95 Sizes: L (Limited Remaining Stock) Warranty: Limited Two Year For avid backcountry skiers and snowboarders, the Scott Couloir Tour Helmet provides a lightweight, uphill-ready helmet that eliminates any extra foam padding or fleeced liner that's expected for in-bounds skiing or riding. The helmet is designed to fit a beanie underneath for extra cushion or warmth, although the helmet also features comfortable ventilation. Bonus specs include a dedicated groove for headlamps and that 55% of the helmet's materials come from recycled materials, including its liner, straps, and vent plates. EXTRA LAPS Remember that when it comes to selecting a helmet - even one of these top-market best ski helmets - fit is the single most important factor. Sizing, weight, venting, padding, and adjustability are all key to finding the perfect helmet for you. While bonus features like audio compatibility and sleek designs are great additives, you should only purchase a helmet that is snug but comfortable. There should be less than 2 millimeters of space between your head on the helmet’s padding at a bare minimum. More seasoned skiers and riders: you should also remember when it is time to replace that trusted bucket of yours. In general, you should replace your helmet after (1) a single hard impact or (2) after 2-3 years of general wear-and-tear. Wearing a helmet beyond either of these events can lead to a reduced level of protection. Have fun and be safe out there, friends. Buying a high-quality helmet may be the single best investment that you could make towards the longevity of your outdoor pursuits. We'll see you on the slopes. Several winter gear retails are currently hosting "End of Season" sales on skiing, snowboarding, and other winter recreational gear - even though we are still in the prime of ski season. Check out industry-leading retailers like EVO, Backcountry, and others to capitalize on these sales!

Still looking to embark on an epic summer road trip? Look no further - these 10 national parks near Detroit provide idyllic outdoor destinations to satisfy your regional wanderlust. Hint: don't forget your passport! We have a confession to make: the Expedition Detroit team was largely not in the Detroit area last week. As our social media following is already well-aware, we spent last week on a road trip back to Detroit from Bozeman, Montana. A multi-day adventure spent exploring timeless destinations like Little Bighorn National Monument, Devil's Tower National Monument, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, and Badlands National Park. Each of these classic Americana experiences earned our full endorsement. Road trips and national parks. Hard to imagine a more iconic dynamic duo. Just mentioning either concept stirs up an innate sense of unbridled adventure and opportunity. Ever sense President Ulysses S. Grant signed the act that established Yellowstone National Park as the world's first national park in 1872, Americans have loaded up their wagons and cars to venture out into the open road and explore the country's most beautiful, exotic, and wild destinations. Canada's history of conservation followed a similar trajectory, including the establishment of Banff National Park in 1885 and the world's first national parks government body in 1911. Yellowstone, Banff, and the great national parks of the west should hold a coveted place on every outdoor enthusiast's bucket list. That goes without question. However, the national park systems constituting the "best idea that we've every had" stretch from sea to shining sea, covering the breadth of ecology diversity that has established North America as a recreational dream trip for the global outdoor community. And yes, several immaculate destinations selected for eternal conservation by our national governments are located within driving distance from the Motor City. So, in the choice words of author Jack Kerouac, all you need to kick off your next national parks adventure is "a wheel in your hand and four on the road." Here are 10 national parks near Detroit that are primed and ready for your next road trip this summer. 1. RIVER RAISIN NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD PARK | Monroe, Michigan Travel Time from Detroit: 40 minutes Established: 2009 Entrance Fee: None Why You Should Visit: Beyond serving as the closest national park site to the confines of the City of Detroit, River Raisin National Battlefield Park provides a living memorial to the single bloodiest battle ever fought on Michigan soil. The park and its immaculate visitor center memorializes the 483 American, British, Canadian, and Native American lives that were lost during the park's namesake War of 1812 battle. Any visit to River Raisin will provide visitors with an immensely impactful historical experience and an opportunity to hike or run along the well-maintained and educational River Raisin National Battlefield Park trail. Featured Experience: Hiking the River Raisin National Battlefield Park Trail 2. POINT PELEE NATIONAL PARK | Leamington, Ontario Travel Time from Detroit: 1 hour Established: 1918 Entrance Fee: $16.75 CAD for groups; $8.50 CAD per adult Why You Should Visit: Point Pelee National Park - Canada's southernmost point - provides a year-round destination for hiking, biking, trail running, kayaking, and relaxing along the park's Lake Erie beaches. Point Pelee is especially noteworthy within the Detroit region for two specific groups of outdoor enthusiasts: bird watchers and dark sky chasers. Point Pelee is recognized as one of Canada's best inland locations to observe seasonal bird migrations, including the park's more than 390 species of birds that annually visit the Point Pelee Birding Area. Point Pelee also holds the esteemed position as the #1 destination in the Detroit region for stargazing opportunities, with the park regularly hosting "Dark Sky Night" events for visitors during optimal stargazing periods. Featured Experience: Biking the Point Pelee Centennial Bicycle Trail 3. CUYAHOGA VALLEY NATIONAL PARK | Village of Peninsula, Ohio Travel Time from Detroit: 2 hours 45 minutes Established: 2000 Entrance Fee: None Why You Should Visit: Cuyahoga Valley National Park constitutes Ohio's sole national park in the state of Ohio and one of three in the entire Great Lakes Basin, including Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan and Isle Royale National Park with Lake Superior. Cuyahoga Valley also differs from the other national parks in the United State due to its location between two large urban centers (Cleveland to the north and Akron to the south). Cuyahoga Valley attracted nearly 3 million visitors in 2022, which flocked to its trails to explore the park's picturesque waterfalls, deep forests, rolling hills, rocky ledges, historic structures, and open farmlands. Featured Experience: Hiking the Ledges to Pine Grove Loop Trail 4. INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARK | Beverly Shores, Indiana Travel Time from Detroit: 3 hours 35 minutes Established: 2019 Entrance Fee: $25.00 USD per vehicle Why You Should Visit: Lake Michigan's might has influenced Indiana Dunes National Park for millennia. Wind and waves have shaped the land, leaving a rich mosaic of habitats along the park's 15 miles of Indiana coast. Indiana Dunes' 50 miles of trails lead through shifting sand dunes, quiet woodlands, sunny prairies, and lush wetlands. Known for its striking plant and bird diversity, it's easy to find natural inspiration and solitude throughout the park’s 15,000 acres. Featured Experience: Hike the Cowles Bog Loop Trail 5. ROUGE NATIONAL URBAN PARK | Toronto, Ontario Travel Time from Detroit: 4 hours 15 minutes Established: 2015 Entrance Fee: None Why You Should Visit: The sole National Urban Park near Detroit, Rouge National Urban Park provides the perfect outdoor complement to a visit to Canada's largest city, Toronto. Comprising the largest urban park in North America, Rouge is home to a rich assembly of forests, creeks, farms and trails as well as marshland, a beach on Lake Ontario, and human history spanning 10,000 years. Featured Experience: Hike the Rouge Valley Loop Trail 6. SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE | Empire, Michigan Travel Time from Detroit: 4 hours 20 minutes Established: 1970 Entrance Fee: $25.00 USD per vehicle Why You Should Visit: Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, and unique flora and fauna make up the natural wonder that is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. One of just three National Lakeshores and often regarded as the "Most Beautiful Place in America," Sleeping Bear's dunes provide visitors with breath-taking views across the expansive Lake Michigan. An island lighthouse, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history. Featured Hike: Hike the Dune Climb Trail 7. GEORGIAN BAY ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK | Midland, Ontario Travel Time from Detroit: 5 hours 10 minutes Established: 1929 Entrance Fee: $12.75 CAD for groups; $6.25 CAD per adult Why You Should Visit: Canada's smallest national park - Georgian Bay Islands National Park - may just be the country's best kept secret. Located in the world’s largest freshwater archipelago and home to thousands of years of Indigenous history, Georgian Bay Islands contains a rich ecological diversity spanning dense deciduous forests to granite outcrops of the Canadian Shield. Beausoleil Island, the park's largest island, comprises of a remote island with a lifetime of beautiful and solitary hiking opportunities. Featured Experience: Hike the Beausoleil Island Outer Loop Trail 8. BRUCE PENINSULA NATIONAL PARK | Northern Bruce Peninsula, Ontario Travel Time from Detroit: 5 hours 15 minutes Established: 1987 Entrance Fee: $16.75 CAD for groups; $8.50 CAD per adult Why You Should Visit: Beloved for its rocky shorelines, dramatic cliffs, vibrant water, and lush woodlands, Bruce Peninsula National Park has welcomed generations of explorers, hikers, paddlers, and sun-bathers. Bruce Peninsula provides visitors with the opportunity to venture out directly from their campsite or yurt to the rugged shoreline of Georgian Bay, as well as to visit the boardwalk trails of Singing Sands on Lake Huron. Featured Experience: Hike the Georgian Bay via Marr Lake Loop Trail 9. PICTURED ROCKS NATIONAL LAKESHORE | Monroe, Michigan Travel Time from Detroit: 6 hours 20 minutes Established: 1966 Entrance Fee: $20.00 USD per vehicle Why You Should Visit: The first, largest, and often regarded as the most wild National Lakeshore in the U.S., Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore represents the one of the most breath-taking destinations not only in Michigan, but all of North America. Pictured Rocks' sandstone cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, sand dunes, inland lakes, deep forest, and wild shoreline have beckoned generations of outdoor enthusiasts to its rugged coastal trails. The power of Lake Superior shapes the park's lakeside features and affects every ecosystem, creating a unique landscape to explore. With stunning beaches, 10 inland lakes, and nearly 100 miles of trails, every recreationists can find their next great adventure at Pictured Rocks. Featured Experience: Hike or Backpack the Chapel Loop Trail 10. THOUSAND ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK | Brockville, Ontario Travel Time from Detroit: 6 hours 40 minutes Established: 1904 Entrance Fee: $8.00 CAD per vehicle Why You Should Visit: Last but certainly not least, Thousand Islands National Park invites you to journey to the park's picturesque granite islands and rugged shorelines. Representing the oldest Canadian National Park east of the Rocky Mountains, Thousand Islands provides endless opportunities for maritime exploration of its secluded bays by kayak or boat, as well as to camp or picnic by the river. Visitors to the park can also learn about the region's biodiversity and rich Indigenous heritage from the vantage point of wooded trails and rocky lookouts. Featured Experience: Paddle the Deadman Bay to Cedar Island Water Trail Have you visited any of these national parks near Detroit before? Do you have special insider tips for new visitors? Let us know in the comments - and don't forget to share this article with any of your adventure buddies who may be interested in joining you on your next best summer road trip!

Welcome back to our #TrailTuesday Series! This week finds us winding our way through a wooded retreat in the heart of Livonia, Michigan. Rotary Park Nature Preserve is a well-loved community hub offering a plethora of outdoor activities for any season. Join us as we experience an enchanting escape into the Rotary Park Loop! "You can't judge a book by its cover." This well-known proverb, generally accepted as a universal truth, can easily be coupled with another: "beauty is in the eye of the beholder," or better yet that "beauty is always found by those who look for it." The main takeaway is that there's always magic and wonder to be found in seemingly simple places or moments. Take our hike for today: a small park, hemmed in by a concrete grid of roads and sidewalks. A trail length of comparatively short distance, no challenging climbs to scenic vistas. You may ask, how could this small trail be worth a visit? Well, in this simple shady oasis, these trails unfold into a place of beauty and tranquility. A refreshing reset, a literal breath of fresh air.  It's unassuming, but the central location and smaller size lend themselves to perfect accessibility and convenience. On a personal level, when those stressful days just beg for a quick escape to the woods, this is my go-to getaway. So we're glad you're here, to follow along on a delightful and enchanting walk through this not-so-hidden treasure. Away we go, to Livonia - and into the wood! MEET ROTARY PARK This gem of a park is a well-loved destination for Livonia locals and the surrounding metro cities alike. Rotary Park's 195 acres provide the perfect spot for a meet up with a friend, a competitive workout on the tennis courts, or a relaxing picnic. Bring the kids, bring the puppers because this place has something fun for everyone. The amenities list is impressive, including a half-mile paved walking loop winds through the front half of the park passing sand volleyball courts, copses of trees offer the perfect hammock perch, and the city's first universally accessible playground! Picnic shelters are available to rent for birthday parties or family reunions, and of course no party would be complete without some friendly horse shoe or bocce ball competition. Follow the road to the back of the park, peer past the baseball fields and you will see the forest loom large and inviting! HIT THE TRAIL Total Distance: 1.6 mi Elevation Gain: 32 ft Trail Rating: Easy Route Orientation: Loop Parking Specifics: Parking available next to the trail head, free entry The trailhead of the Rotary Park Nature Preserve is located on the back left corner of the baseball fields, and there is plenty of parking (click here for a handy map). Dogs are welcome on the trails, but they must be leashed. The preserve is bursting with wildlife, so best to avoid any chase scenes! Something to keep in mind as you begin your trek - while this article follows the main perimeter loop, the defining features of this preserve are the meandering trails and unlimited ways to extend a hike. So come with your sense of exploration engaged and don't be afraid wander a bit and find your own favorite routes! It must be noted, as Rotary Park Nature Preserve is home to many delicate native plants, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles and only stick to the designated trails. To paint a mental picture of this expedition, the main trail follows an oval loop. A small creek separates the front and back sections - the front half providing wider, rather straight shot trails that are fun to navigate thanks to Eagle Scout Adam Katers, who provided us with awesome trail markers and a convenient scan and go map. The back half is wilder and winding, full of enticing paths and engaging terrain. You won't find any trail markers back here, explorer mode locked and loaded! Tarabusi Creek provides the boundary line for the back of the preserve. The sounds of the city fade away as we begin our hike on the west perimeter of the preserve. Last year's wind storms took their toll on the older trees, but the trails are kept clear and well maintained, leaving you free to keep an eye out for darting chipmunks and squirrels who use the downed trees as photogenic perches. Trail Marker 3 sits at our first fork in the road. To advance towards Rotary Park's wild backcountry across the creek, take the middle path. You will find yourself at Trail Marker 6, and a little wood plank bridge. Note: there are 3 points of crossing the creek, but today we'll only trek 2 of them - extra points for anyone who finds the last one! Now the fun begins. Paths narrow and weave closer around trees. Branches dip down and tunnels of vines lead around unknown bends. You will encounter multiple splits in the path, and while I have discovered my own favorite spots, I don't want to take away that element of discovery so, dear reader, the choice is up to you! That's something to appreciate about small parks - you can't get TOO lost. Depending on the season, you may come upon some muddy sections. Ok, sometimes it's more like mini quagmires, but the wet conditions do provide great exercise in strategic foot placement! It's also a good idea to bring bug spray in the spring and summer months, the mosquitoes can be brutal. As you curve around and hit the back boundary line, you will come upon a true scenic surprise! Now we did mention that the back of the park is hemmed in by a creek, but oh - it is more than that. A high ravine slopes down and spills into the peaceful, flowing Tarabusi Creek. And we had said there were no stunning vistas to be found! There is the option to follow a footpath that runs right alongside the creek shore, providing a therapeutic and engaging journey. We're about 1 mile in, and we are entering the homestretch of the loop. We will dip down to the lowest point of our hike, but the grade is so slight, to the tune of about 20 feet! Voila, the second plank bridge ushers us across the creek and brings us to Trail Marker 8. As we wind along these wider dirt trails, heading back towards the parking lot, houses start to appear along the tree line, giving us a gentle reintroduction to the hustle and bustle of city life. WEEKEND BONUS TIPS Livonia is home to many fun and varied attractions and delicious food offerings. Nothing says summertime like a soft serve cone from the famous red Han-D-Dip Dairy Barn. Be sure to check their schedule, as they are only open seasonally. Bate's Burgers always hits the spot for any burger cravings, serving a classic slider and chocolate milkshake combo. For those seeking that post-hike brewski, head over to Supernatural Brewing and Spirits for an exciting (and sometimes spooky) offering of craft beer and mead. Greenmead Historical Park transports us back to a time when this area was a thriving farming community. The park has become a safe haven for many local historic buildings that would have otherwise been demolished. They also host special annual events, like the Motor City Irish Fest and St. Andrew's Society of Detroit Highland Games. The #TrailTuesday Series idea started as a recommendation from readers looking for a deeper analysis into the individual trails that define Detroit's vast network. One of our main goals for this platform is to produce content that reflects the outdoor interests and desires of our community, so please continue to provide us with your suggestions via our contact form or here in the comments!